The Gyanvapi controversy centers on a long-standing legal and religious dispute regarding the Gyanvapi Mosque in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. The core of the conflict involves claims that the mosque was built on the remains of the original Kashi Vishwanath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, which was reportedly demolished by the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in the 17th century.
As of March 2026, the case remains a highly active legal matter involving several layers of the Indian judiciary.
Key Developments and Legal Timeline
* **The 2024 ASI Report: In early 2024, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) submitted a scientific survey report to the Varanasi District Court. The report concluded that a large Hindu temple existed at the site prior to the construction of the current mosque structure.
* Worship in the “Vyas Ji Ka Tehkhana”: On January 31, 2024, a Varanasi court granted Hindus the right to offer prayers in the southern cellar (basement) of the mosque complex, known as the Vyas Ji Ka Tehkhana. This decision was later upheld by the Allahabad High Court.
* The “Shivling” vs. “Fountain” Dispute: During a court-mandated videographic survey in 2022, a structure was found in the mosque’s Wazukhana (ablution pond). Hindu petitioners claim it is a Shivling, while the mosque management (Anjuman Intezamia Masjid Committee) maintains it is a defunct fountain.
* Recent Court Actions (2025–2026): * In late 2025 and early 2026, the Allahabad High Court has been hearing petitions regarding a scientific survey of the Wazukhana area itself (excluding the disputed structure, which remains sealed by Supreme Court order).
* Hearings were recently adjourned in January 2026 to allow for further deliberation on the maintainability of these requests.
Courtesy: Gemini Google